D. H. Lawrence Then and Now

There are clear signs of a revival in the critical fortunes of D. H. Lawrence, but it is not one likely to clear away all the misconceptions that gathered round his name in the past, or avoid developing new ones in the future. In 26 short chapters, arranged alphabetically, this book does not shy away from revealing how strange and often offensive the ideas that accompanied Lawrence’s exceptional gifts could be. The subjects range from familiar ones such as class, humour or religion to no less significant topics like anthropomorphic lust, Blutsbrüdershaft and victories over shame. Taken together, they offer a comprehensive new portrait of Lawrence which will intrigue and perhaps also surprise even those who feel they know his work well. It is written in a jargon-free style, accessible to students as well as other readers, but has behind it a wealth of specialised knowledge, lightly worn.